In a quaint cafe in London’s bustling Holborn district, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Emma Clark, a seasoned consultant with over a decade of experience in the environmental assessment industry. Emma currently works with IPA, an official auditor of BREEAM (Building Research Establishment’s Environmental Assessment Method). As our conversation unfolded, Emma shared her insightful experiences, shedding light on how BREEAM certification is a game-changer in reducing building pollution and reshaping the relationship between capital investment and maintenance.
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From the moment we settled in, Emma’s passion for sustainable building practices was evident. “BREEAM certification is more than just a standard; it’s a commitment to creating buildings that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient,” she began, her eyes lighting up. “The certification process covers various aspects, from design and construction to operation, ensuring that every stage meets stringent environmental criteria.”
Emma recounted a notable project she worked on—a large-scale commercial development in Manchester. “This particular project was fascinating because it was one of the first in the area to aim for BREEAM Outstanding certification,” she explained. “Getting to that level required an integrated approach from all stakeholders, including architects, engineers, and facility managers.”
One of the most significant impacts of BREEAM certification, Emma noted, is its ability to guarantee a reduction in building pollution. “By focusing on sustainable building materials, efficient energy use, and waste management, BREEAM helps minimise the environmental footprint of a building,” she said. “For instance, in the Manchester project, we implemented a greywater recycling system and used low-emission construction materials, which significantly cut down on pollutants.”
But the benefits of BREEAM certification extend beyond environmental conservation. Emma elaborated on how it fundamentally changes the relationship between building capital investment and maintenance. “Traditionally, the focus has been on the initial capital outlay, with less attention given to long-term operational costs,” she explained. “BREEAM shifts this perspective by integrating sustainability into the core of the investment. This means that while there might be a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings in operating expenses are substantial.”
Emma provided a concrete example to illustrate her point. “Take the energy-efficient systems we installed in the Manchester building. They required a higher initial investment, but the savings on energy bills over the building’s lifetime will more than compensate for that. Moreover, these systems often come with lower maintenance costs, as they are designed to be durable and efficient.”
Our conversation then turned to the global implications of BREEAM certification. “What’s remarkable about BREEAM is that it sets a global standard for comfort and sustainability,” Emma said. “Whether you’re in London, New York, or Tokyo, a BREEAM-certified building assures tenants and owners of a high-quality, sustainable environment.”
Emma mentioned another project, this time a residential development in Tokyo, to highlight BREEAM’s international reach. “Working on the Tokyo project was an eye-opener,” she recalled. “Despite the cultural and regulatory differences, the core principles of BREEAM remained applicable. The project involved enhancing natural light, improving indoor air quality, and ensuring efficient water use—all of which contributed to a healthier living space and lower environmental impact.”
As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Emma about the future of BREEAM and sustainable building practices. “I’m optimistic,” she replied with a thoughtful smile. “With growing awareness of climate change and the need for sustainable development, BREEAM will continue to play a crucial role. It’s not just about meeting regulations; it’s about setting a benchmark for what’s possible in creating buildings that are both functional and environmentally friendly.”
Emma’s insights left me with a profound appreciation for the transformative power of BREEAM certification. It’s clear that this rigorous standard not only guarantees a reduction in building pollution but also redefines the relationship between capital investment and maintenance, ultimately leading to more sustainable and cost-effective buildings.
As I walked away from our meeting, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the potential of BREEAM to shape the future of construction. Emma’s experiences and the projects she described are testament to the fact that with the right commitment and expertise, sustainable building practices can become the norm rather than the exception.
John Williams
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